Significant update emerges in Watford’s pursuit of Barcelona forward | OneFootball

Barcelona striker Rey Manaj is set for a Watford medical today, as per a report from The Athletic.

The 25-year-old, who has a year left on his current deal with the Spanish giants, is yet to feature for Barcelona at senior level, embarking on a loan spell with Serie A club Spezia last season.

The Italian club had an option to buy the Albanian forward as part of their initial loan deal, however, Spezia opted against the €2.5 million permanent move.

The report states that there are offers on the table from clubs in Spain and Italy but it does appear that Watford are well ahead at this stage.

Manaj met with senior Watford officials on Tuesday, returning to Spain the same day, however, he is now scheduled to fly back into Heathrow to complete his medical.

Quiz: 20 statements about former Watford players – Are they true or false?

1 of 20

RICHARLISON IS CURRENTLY AN EVERTON PLAYER

TRUE FALSE

The verdict

Adding a striker to the squad has seemingly been high up on the priority list at Watford ahead of the new season, with the futures of Emmanuel Dennis and Ismaila Sarr yet to de decided.

The 25-year-old would arrive in the Championship with invaluable experience in the top division of Italian football with Spezia last season, whilst he has also trained with the first team at Barcelona.

Rob Edwards is looking to assemble a squad at Watford that can challenge for an immediate return to the Premier League next season, with the potential addition of a talented forward like Manaj an exciting prospect.

It remains to be seen if any complications arise, however, it appears that Watford are making good progress in this particular pursuit.